About the Program

Bringing together courses from the natural sciences, the social sciences, and design, Environmental Studies looks beyond natural ecology and resource conservation to emphasize urban ecosystems, sustainable design, and public policy. The program, administered by the Tishman Environment and Design Center, promotes urban-focused study that examines both the natural and social ecosystems that flourish in cities and the wider ecosystems, such as watersheds, that support cities with natural resources. Students analyze the ecological impact of the systems that sustain city life, including energy, food, water, construction, manufacturing, and transportation, many of which draw on distant natural resources.

Study Options

Prospective students who wish to major in Environmental Studies must apply to Eugene Lang College using the Common Application. Parsons no longer accepts applications to the Environmental Studies program.

Parsons students who are interested in Environmental Studies should consider a related minor at Parsons, or they may be able to take courses at Eugene Lang College to minor in Environmental Studies.

Parsons students currently enrolled in the BS Environmental Studies program should refer to the Parsons Catalog for their year of admission for curriculum requirements. See Academic Policies for more details.